3 Ways To Keep The Kids Cool

It’s been hot. Real hot. And if I didn’t have kids, I would have been more than content to spend my time in the comforts of an air-conditioned home. Unfortunately, my little ones need constant entertainment.

If you’re one of the brave few who are willing to leave home, run to the car and find some summertime adventure, I’ve got a list of ways you can stay cool:

1. Water Play

Capron Park Zoo, Attleboro

Yeah, they have animals and cool species but better yet they have a new splash park. This zero-depth water playground will have water spraying them, pouring on them and delighting them. Kids can enter the zoo for $5 and there’s a shaded snack bar close by offering lots of frozen treats.

Frog Pond, Boston Common

Don’t forget about this place – it’s free. During the winter this Boston common spot serves as a skating rink but in the summer it’s a clean, chlorinated cool-down option. There’s a carosuel nearby for $3 per ride and the Frog Pond café offers some tasty treats.

2. Indoor Fun

Bowling, Kids Bowl Free Program

If you haven’t heard of this, listen carefully…your kids can bowl free. Simply go to kidsbowlfree.com and find a participating alley in your area. Very easy!

Monster mini-golf, Norwood, Seekonk, Danvers

Indoor golf for your little monsters (that’s their term, not mine). This scene may be intimidating to the younger set but my 8-year-old son loves it. Check out the sites homepage for weekly specials and you can easily lower the $6.50 per person cost.

3. Storytimes

Lots of libraries offer free weekly story times so check your local listings. Also, the malls are a good source of free family fun. The American Girl Store at Natick Collections has free storytimes for girls every Tuesday and Thursday. I’d also be sure to check your local Barnes & Noble bookstore for times and locations.